There are plenty of powerviolence bands and albums that can get your adrenaline racing; however, not many can do that in such a way that generates a need to release that energy onto the nearest punch-able surface. This is one of those few. Charles Bronson's
Youth Attack! packs a sharp and youthful punch that practically oozes with rebellious attitude.
Musically,
Youth Attack! fares well with keeping its aggression without dipping in song-writing quality. While it isn't very subtle, as is typical for most albums of this style, it has fairly great song structures. Most of the tracks on here don't completely rely on simply blasting their way through without restraint. It has plenty of dynamic changes throughout; these changes often come and go in a blink of an eye, so it's obvious that they never overstay their welcome. It also incorporates a few oddly catchy grooves and riffs; examples can be found in tracks like "Pre(im)mature Retirement Plan" and "Red and Green Make Yellow". All instrumental aspects aside, the vocals are definitely the standout feature here. They have a somewhat juvenile tone while maintaining an extremely angry energy.
Lyrically,
Youth Attack! holds up, though not as high as it does musically. The lyrics pretty much involve simply saying "*** you!" to everyone and everything, which does end up complimenting the juvenile-sounding vocals rather well. Good examples of the lyrics on this album are from the first and second tracks, "Marriage Can Suck It" and "Youth Attack!". The first track's title is pretty much self-explanatory, and the second track involves simply rejecting the idea of growing old. Overall, the lyrics are quite entertaining if not taken seriously.
Ultimately,
Youth Attack! is a blast to listen all the way through multiple times in a row. It's angry, filled with energy, and it's a damn good stress reliever. Highly recommended.
